It speaks well to filmmaker Collin Schiffli that while this was his first full-length feature (following several shorts), it boasts high production values and discernible polish that can't be said for all debuts. Likewise, it marked David Dastmalchian's first time writing a full-length feature (following a couple shorts), but even here he illustrates keen intelligence that results in a fiercely strong, compelling story. Many are those films that have been made about drug addiction and connected struggles, but not all of them are able to pack as much of a punch as this one does, and that 'Animals' is as rich and impactful as it is says so much about the skills of all involved. In fact, for as tight and hard-hitting as it is, I rather think this stands notably taller than no few similar titles. It's a step or two (or three) too far to say that this is "enjoyable," but it's deeply absorbing and keeps us locked in from start to finish, and is absolutely worth exploring for anyone seeking a solid drama.
The picture is perhaps a smidgen imbalanced just in terms of tone, for while in the first act it's unexpectedly light (stopping just short of comedy-drama territory, to be honest), right around the halfway point we get an enormous shift that could scarcely be more unflinchingly bleak. That harsh dourness sticks around for a fair while until the last small stretch is characterized by a more bittersweet mood. However, chief characters Jude and Bobbie are centered all the while in a fashion that marks this ultimately as a tale more about their relationship than about their addictions - albeit a relationship that's defined primarily BY those addictions - and as such the entirety is able to remain a bit more centered and cohesive than it otherwise would have. Furthermore, it's readily evident that Dastmalchian wrote his script from a very personal place of past experiences, and that intimacy as much as the characters' (if not more so) allows the proceedings to resonate with a vitality that's undeniable. Jude and Bobbie are given meaningful character arcs that only bolster the power of the storytelling, and the scene writing is deftly varied while carrying substantial weight as the runtime elapses. Dreary as the movie is overall, in his writing alone Dastmalchian lends it a commanding magnetic presence, and I could hardly be more pleased with the result.
Moreover, I hope some day the man tries his hand at directing, because he seems to have most other aspects of film-making down pat, and that includes admirable acting skills. I couldn't possibly pick a favorite between Dastmalchian and co-star Kim Shaw, for both illustrate terrific range, nuance, and emotional depth that on the basis of this alone makes me want to find more from each. Though Schiffli's job as director is surely made easier with such a robust screenplay, and such a great cast, his direction is firm and focused, ever maximizing the potency to be derived from all the component parts. He also demonstrates a sharp eye for detail, which is particularly welcome here since there is so much of it to take in. The production design and art direction are superb, not to mention costume design, hair, and makeup: in every capacity we, as viewers, are fully immersed into Jude and Bobbie's sordid world, from the car that they live in, to the dealers they parlay with, to their paraphernalia, and the scams and petty theft they engage in for survival and to feed their addiction. Ian Hultquist's music rather sticks to the background, but subtly lends to the mood as it peeks up; kudos to cinematographer Larkin Donley and editor Amanda C. Griffin, who so capably helped to give shape to the feature. Really, all around 'Animals' is very well done.
I can understand how this won't appeal to everyone, not even taking into account the subject matter. For my part, though, I'm tremendously pleased with how strong this is in every regard, and I'm happy to give it a very high, hearty recommendation. Whether you're a big fan of someone involved or just seeking an engrossing, satisfying drama, as far as I'm concerned 'Animals' is fantastic, and worth much more than the time it takes to watch.
